No Presidency For PDP Without Rebuilding, Wike Declares

According to Ireporter Online, Wike made the remark on Thursday during a media interaction, where he stressed that no political party can successfully win a presidential election without first establishing a strong foundation, resolving internal disputes and building a nationwide support network.

The former Rivers State governor noted that the PDP’s internal struggles have weakened the party and reduced its chances of making an immediate return to power at the national level.

Wike explained that rebuilding a political party after a major crisis requires time, strategic planning and commitment, adding that achieving victory in a presidential election cannot be accomplished without functional structures across the country.

He questioned the belief that Nigeria’s democracy is only meaningful when certain opposition figures participate in elections, stressing that democracy goes beyond the involvement of individual politicians.

According to him, the political system should not be defined solely by whether personalities such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar or Labour Party leader Peter Obi contest elections, as democracy is built around institutions, parties and the participation of citizens.

Wike further emphasised that opposition parties must focus on strengthening their presence at the grassroots level, including wards, local government areas and states, before making presidential ambitions their priority.

He said building a party capable of competing nationally requires extensive preparation, resources and organisation, noting that campaigns and electoral success cannot be achieved within a short period.

The FCT Minister advised political parties to first establish strong structures, secure support at various levels and gradually position themselves for national contests.

Wike also dismissed allegations that he was working in favour of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), insisting that his position has always been based on his belief that the PDP must address its internal weaknesses.

He maintained that he has consistently called on the party to resolve its issues and rebuild, adding that achieving presidential victory requires discipline, long-term planning and a strong political structure across all 36 states of the federation.